Troublesome times are here, and they won't be going away soon.
The recent flares of violence in the Middle East have left the world with another dilemma of massive proportions, and once again nations of the free world are groping to find the best solution.
Yet, in the middle of finding peace, a new dilemma faces the American people. Iraq's leader, Saddam Hussein, is attempting to use what leverage he has and cut off oil shipments to countries allied with Israel.
Hussein can pound his fists and make constant threats, but his rants are simply the equivalent of a spoiled boy's ravings about not letting anyone play with his toys unless they played by his rules.
Still, perhaps it is time for America to look for alternative, different sources of energy. General Motors has already taken the first step by designing a car that runs on fuel cells and eliminates the internal combustion engine.
Other car companies, including Daimler Chrysler and Toyota, are developing cars that run on electric or alternative fuels. Such vehicles, alone, would drastically reduce America's dependence on oil.
The issue is a complicated one, but now is the time for America to push harder for alternative fuels. Would major oil companies fight it? Yes, but change is inevitable, and welcome, in a marketplace economy.
Fortunately, other countries are wise enough and are not following Hussein's lead. Yet, his bullying is simply showing America that it is time to move on.